Achieving that elusive glow isn’t just about topical treatments—it’s about nourishing your skin from within, supporting your body’s natural processes, and committing to habits that help you shine inside and out. If you’ve been feeling like your skin and body need a little refresh, February is the perfect time for a glow-up. From winter skin fixes to mental well-being hacks, these science-backed tips will help you achieve a healthy, radiant glow all month long.
1. Supercharge Your Skin’s Hydration: The Key to a Dewy Glow
Healthy, hydrated skin looks plump, radiant, and youthful. Dehydration can make your skin look dull, fine lines more pronounced, and exacerbate dryness and redness. Drinking water is essential, but it’s equally important to focus on topical hydration using ingredients that support the skin’s moisture barrier.
The Science:
Research shows that hyaluronic acid—a humectant—draws moisture from the environment and binds it to your skin, leading to better hydration and a glowing complexion. Studies indicate that ceramides, found in many moisturizing products, are critical to preventing water loss and maintaining the skin barrier.
Pro Tip: Look for products like The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 or CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion, which help keep moisture locked in.
2. Exfoliation for Skin Renewal: Cell Turnover is the Secret to Fresh Skin
Exfoliation removes dead skin cells from the surface, promoting cell turnover and ensuring your skin feels smooth and looks radiant. As we age, our skin’s natural exfoliation process slows down, leading to a buildup of dead skin that can clog pores and make the complexion appear dull.
The Science:
A 2016 study published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology found that exfoliating regularly could enhance the skin’s appearance, giving it a smoother texture and more even tone. Both physical exfoliants (like scrubs) and chemical exfoliants (such as AHA and BHA) are effective, depending on your skin type.
Pro Tip: If you have sensitive skin, opt for gentle chemical exfoliants like lactic acid or glycolic acid (think Pixi Glow Tonic or Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant). For body exfoliation, ExfoliKate Body offers a dual-action scrub that combines physical and enzymatic exfoliation.
3. Nourish Your Skin with Fatty Acids and Antioxidants
Your skin thrives on healthy fats and antioxidants—both of which help protect the skin from environmental damage and keep it moisturized. Omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts) and antioxidants (like vitamin C and vitamin E) are particularly effective at reducing inflammation and preventing oxidative stress, which can lead to premature aging.
The Science:
A 2019 review in the Nutrients Journal highlighted the importance of omega-3 fatty acids for reducing the inflammatory markers associated with skin aging. Additionally, vitamin C stimulates collagen production, which can help improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines.
Pro Tip: Add foods like salmon, chia seeds, and avocado to your diet for healthy fats and antioxidants. Topical products with vitamin C like Skinceuticals C E Ferulic can help brighten your complexion while fighting free radical damage.
4. Body Care Rituals: Smoothing and Hydrating from Head to Toe
Most people focus primarily on their face when it comes to skincare, but body care is just as important. Using body scrubs, rich creams, and oils helps keep your skin soft, smooth, and glowing. Additionally, the skin on your body often experiences more stress than facial skin, from sun exposure to environmental pollutants and friction.
The Science:
Exfoliating the body with a scrub or brush can boost circulation and lymphatic drainage, promoting skin health. Hydrating body oils rich in vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids can restore moisture balance and improve the skin’s texture.
Pro Tip: Use a scrub with natural oils like shea butter or coconut oil, such as Neutrogena Body Oil Scrub, followed by a deeply hydrating product like Burt’s Bees Body Butter or Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel for Body.
5. Sleep: Your Skin’s Natural Repair Time
Quality sleep is essential for the skin’s repair process. During deep sleep, blood flow to the skin increases, which helps to regenerate cells, repair tissue damage, and enhance the absorption of skincare ingredients. Lack of sleep can lead to puffy eyes, dullness, and even acne flare-ups due to increased cortisol levels.
The Science:
According to a study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology, poor sleep quality is linked to poorer skin health, including increased signs of skin aging and diminished recovery after sun exposure. Melatonin, the hormone released during sleep, has also been shown to have skin-protective properties.
Pro Tip: Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep per night, and use silk pillowcases to minimize skin friction and prevent sleep lines.
6. Protect Your Skin: SPF Is Non-Negotiable
Sun protection is not only about preventing sunburn—UV radiation accelerates the breakdown of collagen and elastin, leading to premature aging and increased risk of skin cancer. SPF is your first line of defense in keeping your skin youthful, plump, and radiant.
The Science:
Studies consistently show that UV exposure contributes to photoaging and increases the likelihood of hyperpigmentation. A study from the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology found that daily sunscreen use prevents premature aging and maintains skin’s natural glow.
Pro Tip: Choose a sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection (against both UVA and UVB rays), such as EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 or La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-in Sunscreen Milk SPF 60.
7. Facial Massage for Lymphatic Drainage
Facial massages using tools like gua sha or jade rollers can reduce puffiness, improve circulation, and enhance the absorption of your serums and oils. The gentle pressure used in these techniques stimulates lymphatic drainage, helping to release excess fluids and reduce inflammation.
The Science:
Facial massage increases circulation, which can help improve the appearance of your skin by delivering more oxygen and nutrients to skin cells. A 2017 study in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science found that facial massage could enhance the absorption of active ingredients and increase skin tone and texture.
Pro Tip: Try a gua sha tool or jade roller on clean, moisturized skin, gently moving along your jawline, cheeks, and forehead for a calming, de-puffing effect.
8. The Power of Adaptogens: Stress Relief for Glowing Skin
Chronic stress can wreak havoc on your skin, leading to breakouts, dullness, and even premature aging. Adaptogens like ashwagandha and rhodiola can help balance your cortisol levels, allowing your body to better manage stress and support skin health.
The Science:
A 2019 study in the Journal of Clinical Medicine found that adaptogens can reduce the physiological effects of stress, improving overall skin health. Stress leads to inflammation, which can worsen conditions like acne and eczema.
Pro Tip: Incorporate adaptogens into your routine via supplements or teas. Ashwagandha supplements, holy basil tea, and matcha are popular choices for reducing stress.
9. Embrace Movement: Exercise for a Natural Glow
Regular exercise increases blood flow, oxygenates the skin, and promotes the production of collagen and elastin—resulting in firmer, glowing skin. Plus, exercise has a direct link to stress reduction, improving skin conditions related to stress like acne.
The Science:
A study published in the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine confirmed that exercise improves skin health by increasing the flow of nutrients to skin cells and boosting collagen production. Increased circulation helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Pro Tip: Aim for 30 minutes of moderate exercise, such as walking, yoga, or swimming, to keep your skin glowing and your body fit.
10. Balance Your Diet with Skin-Boosting Foods
A diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods can help support your skin’s health. Incorporating omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamin-rich foods can help fight free radicals, reduce acne, and protect the skin from UV damage.
The Science:
A study in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics found that a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats contributes to better skin appearance, helping to combat the visible effects of aging and inflammation.
Pro Tip: Include foods like berries, sweet potatoes, spinach, and almonds for an extra skin boost.
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